Kike Barja Denies Rumors Linking Him With A Move To Athletic Club

This summer is going to be a very interesting time at Athletic Club. Changes are coming and the squad is going to receive something of an overhaul. One issue that has plagued the Lions this season is lack of scoring and the club is said to be looking to add talent in the attacking half of the field. Despite being only 20 years old, Osasuna winger Kike Barja has been regularly linked with the Basque giants and his €4 million release clause could easily be triggered if desired.

Borja came up through the Osasuna youth system and is a versatile attacker capable of playing on either wings. He is one of the most exciting Basque prospects in his age group and it only makes sense that Athletic would be interested in bringing him to the San Mamés, especially after missing out on Alex Berenguer last summer. However, Barja recently spoke with Alberto García of Mundo Deportivoand was quick to say that he hasn’t had any contact from any club.

“I’m only thinking about training each day and preparing for every game. It took me many years to get to the first team and play minutes, so I’m only thinking about the day to day because that is what will keep me up or send me back down. Football is like that. One day you’re up and playing a lot and another one you are down. I’m focused on training well and improving. I have many things to improve and a lot to learn from my teammates. The rumors are rumors. All I know is that I have not received any call or an offer from any team. I’m only thinking about this team and achieving my goals and improving.”

If Barja were to join Athletic this summer he wouldn’t be expected to play a major role within the team with the likes of Iker Muniain, Iñaki Williams, and Markel Susaeta in the way. Still, he could see minutes as a rotational player while continuing his developing and adjusting to the top flight. Even more, it will likely be up to the new manager hired this summer to decide if the potential transfer is even wanted. Only time will tell if this rumor has any validity, but for now the 20-year-old is denying the rumors of his leaving Osasuna.